Predictors of ethno-cultural identity conflict among South Asian immigrant youth in New Zealand

Abstract

The study tested a predictive model of ethno-cultural identity conflict (EIC) in a sample of 262 first-generation South Asian youth (aged 16–26, M = 19.4) in New Zealand. Hierarchical multiple regression was used to investigate the influence of: 1) attachment styles (preoccupied, dismissive, secure, and fearful); 2) family relations (intergenerational conflict and family cohesion); 3) ethnic (belonging, centrality, and exploration) and national identities; and 4) interactions between the components of ethnic and national identity. Controlling for demographic factors, results indicated that a preoccupied attachment style and experiences of acculturative intergenerational conflict exacerbated EIC, whereas family cohesion, ethnic identity centrality, and ethnic group belonging protected against EIC. It was also found that national identity moderated the effects of ethnic identity on EIC. Overall, these findings suggest positive self-regard, family cohesion, and integrated achieved identities should be promoted for immigrant youth.